Articles to LIFT Your Life and Business

Should Your LLC Hold Annual Member Meetings and Keep Minutes?

by Alexis Neely 28 Sep 2018

Many entrepreneurs structure their businesses as limited liability companies (LLC) because like corporations, LLCs offer personal liability protection for their owners. But unlike corporations, LLCs are not legally required to adhere to many of the same corporate formalities required of corporations. Given that LLCs offer the liability protection of a corporation, without all of the […]

The Tax Benefits of Limited Liability Companies

by Alexis Neely 31 Aug 2018

As its name suggests, limited liability companies (LLCs) protect personal assets from debts and other business liabilities. But you may not be aware that LLCs can also offer tax savings. As an LLC, you have flexibility in choosing how you’ll be taxed. This allows you to reap a number of benefits unavailable to other business […]

One of the primary reasons business owners set up corporations and limited liability companies (LLC) is to shield their personal assets from debts and other liabilities incurred by the business. Indeed, corporations and LLCs exist as separate legal entities from their owners, meaning the business itself can acquire assets, enter into contracts, and take on […]

4 Vital Legal Agreements All Startups Should Have in Place

by Alexis Neely 23 Feb 2018

When getting a business off the ground, one common mistake business owners make is not establishing a solid legal foundation to protect their company from unforeseen situations and circumstances. The most effective and efficient way to provide this legal bedrock is by putting a set of key legal agreements in place. Gleaned from years of […]

When Is a Good Time to Incorporate?

by Alexis Neely 20 Oct 2017

Incorporating your business can save you money on taxes and limit your liability for business debts. But, most importantly, it says to the world — I’m in business. And that sends an important message to you, your clients, your spouse, your friends, family and, yes, even to the IRS. In the early months or years […]

Hiring? Great! Here’s How to Get Started with Your First Employee

by Alexis Neely 13 Jan 2017

Up until now, you alone have been running your small business. Now you need help. The moment when a small business owner decides to hire his or her first employee is one of triumph. Conversely, knowing how to start the hiring process can be a moment of confusion. If you’re ready to hire your first […]

Tax Lessons for Your Business, Courtesy of the Clintons!

by Alexis Neely 14 Oct 2016

In anticipation of the election and in response to public demand, Hillary and Bill Clinton have released their 2015 federal tax return. Tax returns have been a hot topic this year, as candidate Donald Trump continues to refuse to release his tax returns. What can you learn from reviewing the Clinton’s tax returns about how […]

Overcoming Small Business Challenges through Operational Strategies

by Alexis Neely 22 Jul 2016

As with so many things in life, some of the same qualities that help small businesses succeed, can also lead to their demise. Fortunately, much of that risk can be lessened through operational excellence. For example, the owners and managers of small businesses often know each other before they go into business together. Sometimes, they’re […]

Your Family Business Legacy Matters Enough to Do These Three Things

by Alexis Neely 17 Jun 2016

Your family-owned and run business can be the greatest gift or the greatest burden to the people you love, if and when something happens to you. If you’ve planned well and properly for your business to be continued, managed or sold, it will be the gift that keeps on giving and shows your family just […]

Partnerships and LLCs, Take Heed of New Tax Law

by Alexis Neely 29 Apr 2016

Beginning with tax year 2018, all partnerships and limited liability companies (LLCs) taxed as partnerships will be affected by a new federal tax audit law. In 2015, the Bipartisan Budget Act repealed the earlier audit system, known as TEFRA, and replaced it with entirely new taxation audit provisions. It is important for those affected by […]

Do your family, friends or spouse see your business as a hobby and not a real deal business venture?

by Alexis Neely 22 Apr 2016

If you are relatively new in business, you may find that one of your biggest challenges is facing the reality that the people in your life aren’t taking your entrepreneurial endeavors seriously. This can show up in a variety of ways which undermine your success, including: Interrupting you when you’re trying to focus on your […]